Jan Young
InstantRiverside.com

On January 24 at about 5:45 p.m., deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Cabazon Station responded to a report of two lost hikers in the area of the Skyline Trail, east of the Upper Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Station, near the elevation of 6,000 feet.

Both hikers had set out on a day hike wearing light clothing and were not properly dressed or equipped for the snow they encountered at the higher elevations.  As nightfall set in, they became disoriented and lost the trail.

As it began to snow again, temperatures quickly dropped to about 28 degrees.

The hikers had a cell phone in their possession and were able to call the Sheriff’s department for assistance.

Being such a serious situation, both the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit and Sheriff’s helicopter were called in to conduct the search.

At about 9:50 p.m., the helicopter crew spotted the lost hikers, but was unable to land or deploy a rescue crew due to the steep terrain and high winds.  They helped direct the ground crew to the hikers, however they were still unable to complete the rescue because the hikers were too exhausted to hike out.

Rescuers provided the hikers with food, water, and warm clothing and bedded down with the hikers until daybreak.

The following morning, rescuers helped the hikers get to a safe landing zone and at about 10:30 a.m., both hikers were airlifted to safety by the helicopter.

The hikers, identified as Anna Moshchenko, 46, and Mario German, 48, both from Canada, were found cold and exhausted, but otherwise uninjured.

They declined medical treatment and were transported back to their vehicle.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind local hikers to be mindful of even short wilderness hikes.  Hikers should consider their experience, knowledge of the terrain, weather and personal physical limitations.

During this time of year, the weather can change drastically, and the temperatures can drop significantly, with little or no warning.  Hikers should always bring enough water and wear appropriate clothing.  Always let friends and family know where you intend on hiking and when you are expected to return.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Cabazon Sheriff’s Station at 951.922.7100 or at CabazonStation@RiversideSheriff.org

Filed under Headline

Thursday, January 26, 2012

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